Belgian adventurer Louis-Philippe Loncke, who styles himself the Mad Belgian, is set to return to the Simpson Desert in Australia for a third time. Loncke aims to make a double crossing of the desert, covering 1,060km over 55 to 60 days.
Loncke has trekked across the Simpson Desert twice before. His first journey in 2008 involved a north-to-south crossing of 600km in 36 days. He carried his food, water, and gear on a custom-built wheeled cart. In 2016, Loncke attempted a west-to-east route with a heavy backpack. However, he had to abandon the trek after 13 days because he could not carry enough food and water.
For this latest expedition, Loncke has upgraded his cart with a reinforced frame and new wheels to handle a greater payload.
The Simpson is Australia’s fourth largest desert, roughly one-third the size of France. It is home to the world’s longest parallel sand dunes. There have been at least five known unsupported solo journeys across different parts of the Simpson Desert. Several attempts over the past decade failed to replicate Loncke’s 2008 route.
Previous unsupported solo routes across the Simpson Desert, according to Loncke: (1) Lucas Trihey (AUS), West-East, 17 days (2006), 400km; (2) Louis-Philippe Loncke (BEL), North-South, 36 days (2008), 600km; (3) Louis-Philippe Loncke (BEL), West-East, stopped after 13 days (2016). This route was completed in 2023 in 13 days by Belgian Ian Devreese; (4) Michael Giacometti (AUS), East-West, 24 days (2008), 450km. Image: Louis-Philippe Loncke
Second half will be longer, harder
Loncke plans to begin his journey next week from Andado, an old homestead southeast of Alice Springs. He will head east to Birdsville, passing through the center of the Simpson Desert and Poeppel Corner. Starting with 85 liters of water and 20 kilograms of food on his cart, Loncke aims to complete this 430km first leg in 18 to 20 days. He will then resupply in Birdsville.
The return journey, expected to be the most challenging, will take the Belgian from Birdsville back to Alice Springs. This 630km trek will take about 40 days and will require 160 liters of water and 32 kilograms of food.
Loncke expects to return to civilization in late September.
